So Merkuriev's appearance in the Spanish Dance of the just-filmed Swan Lake DVD is literally his 'Swan Song' with the Kirov.

Leigh Witchel - You probably saw Semionov in his very last appearance with the Kirov, when you saw his Solor last week. How nice that he was able to finish the first phase of his career on a high note.

Share this post

Link to post

The theater is closing for only 18 months, commencing Jan. 1, 2007. That's the latest announcement, at any rate.

Here's a more likely reason for the departures. Talented up-and-coming dancers like Vostrotina, Yesina and Simionov have little opportunity to perform in substantial roles, unless they are highly favored within the politics of the organization and of 'Russian Life' (such as Somova or Kondaurova). Hence, any opportunity to depart for professionally-greener pastures is welcomed, especially if the sponsoring organization makes it easy for them (visas, travel, household move, etc.).

Update - even more have recently left!

Vienna Opera Ballet recently welcomed Maria Yakovleva, one of the great talents of the Class of 2005. Barely able to perform in StPetersburg, Yakovleva joined Vienna Ballet as a soloist (their highest rank). Also in Vienna is Ivan Popov (as demi-soloist) and one other male dancer whose name escapes me.

Share this post

Link to post

I suppose that I could also write 'Nigerian Life' or 'Mexican Life' or 'Ukrainean Life.' Russia is not alone in combatting this malaise. Apologies - I don't mean to pick on my second home, which I love, warts and all.

Share this post

Link to post

It seems that even the favored principals don't dance these roles all that much, at least compared with North American standards.

Is this impression correct? If so, why is this the case (is it just a function of the vastness of the company)? Where CAN the company's dancers get the performance experience and the oportunity to expand their art? Some guest with other companies. What about the rest?

At least Washington, DC, saw Terioshkina in some of her last performances as a member of the Kirov-Mariinsky, when she triumphed as Myrthe in Giselle. She will be missed, as will all of the other talented dancers.

Share this post

Link to post

According to the Mariinsky website Tereshkina & Fadeyev just opened the season in St. Petersburg last night in Swan Lake. She is also scheduled to dance on their North American Tour next month so, thankfully, it appears that she has not left the Kirov.

Any reports of last night's performance?

Share this post

Link to post

The current version of the Dresden company roster has an asterisk by Tereshkina's name. That or a cross usually means "Guest Artist," (alternately, "Principal Guest Artist," etc.) but the "*" isn't referenced anywhere on the page.

Share this post

Link to post

The current version of the Dresden company roster has an asterisk by Tereshkina's name. That or a cross usually means "Guest Artist," (alternately, "Principal Guest Artist," etc.) but the "*" isn't referenced anywhere on the page.

This reminds me of the old days when people tried to figure out what was happening in the Kremlin by looking at the photos from the May Day parades!